
stiff bottlebrush
Callistemon rigidus
Cycle:
Perennial
Watering:
Average
Hardiness Zone:
9 - 10
Flowers:
Red Flowers
Sun:
Full sun
Leaf:
Yes
Leaf Color:
green
Growth Rate:
Low
Maintenance:
Moderate
Drought Tolerant:
Yes
Salt Tolerant:
Yes
Thorny:
Yes
Care Level:
Medium
watering
Stiff bottlebrush (Callistemon rigidus) plants should be watered when the soil is dry to the touch. Water thoroughly each time, ensuring that the entire root system is saturated. Allow the soil to dry out between watering, and avoid over-watering. During the growing season (spring and summer), water as often as once a week; apply enough water to keep the top soil from drying out completely for approximately 7-10 days. During cooler months, water every 2 weeks.
sunlight
Stiff bottlebrush (Callistemon rigidus) will do best in full sun or at least 6 hours of sunlight per day. The hottest part of the day optimizes flowering. This plant also benefits from some afternoon shade in areas with very hot summers. The morning sun helps the plant dry out after rainfall, which helps to prevent fungal diseases from forming. Planting the stiff bottlebrush in sun or partial shade is recommended in areas with hot and dry climates.
pruning
Stiff bottlebrush (Callistemon rigidus) is a dense, woody shrub that typically reaches up to 2 meters in height and width. Pruning this species is beneficial for keeping its shape and size. It is recommended to do a light pruning in late winter, just before growth starts. Pruning should be done before new shoots develop and flower buds begin to form. Remove any dead, diseased or broken branches and shape the tree into desired form. Heavy pruning could also be performed in late winter and early spring. However, it is suggested to prune only 20% of the plant during heavy pruning.